Brussels 21.04.2025 Today the EU flag at half mast at the EP buildings in Brussels and Strasbourg symbolizing the grief and sorrow after the death of Pope Francis. Although being an Argentinian, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, had strong ties with Europe, and the European Union:
“Today, as many in Europe look to its future with uncertainty, others look to Europe with hope, convinced that it still has something to offer to the world and to humanity. The same conviction inspired Robert Schuman, who realized that “the contribution which an organized and living Europe can bring to civilization is indispensable to the maintenance of peaceful relations”. It is a conviction that we ourselves can share, setting out from shared values and rooted in the history and culture of this land” the Pope wrote to mark the the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Holy See, and the European Union in May, 2021.

Europe mourns the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.

His contagious smile captured millions of people’s hearts across the globe.

‘The People’s Pope’ will be remembered for his love for life, hope for peace, compassion for equality & social justice.

May he rest in peace 🇪🇺🇻🇦 pic.twitter.com/LsqYREynVP

— Roberta Metsola (@EP_President) April 21, 2025

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Born in Buenos Aires in 1936, Jorge Mario Bergoglio became the first Argentinian Pope, paradoxically he never visited his homeland during his papacy, in part out of concern that he would face political pressures, although he hinted to the possibility of returning last year. “I am worried because the people are suffering a lot. It is a difficult moment for the country,” he said in an interview on an Italian program on Jan 2024. The Pope received the President of Argentina Milei at the Vatican in February last year.

The Pope and the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met in June, 2022, and their conversation was “focused on the good bilateral relations and common commitment to work to bring the war in Ukraine to an end, dedicating particular attention to the humanitarian aspects and the food consequences of the continuation of the conflict”, the Vatican news wrote.

Today, the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis.

He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate.

My thoughts are with all who feel this profound loss.

May they find solace in the idea that Pope Francis’… pic.twitter.com/FiI6SASNl8

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) April 21, 2025

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They also exchanged opinions about the “conclusions of the Conference on the future of Europe and on the consequences for the future structure of the Union.”